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Household Hacks

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My Little Kitchen Discovery

I’ve been using Kirk’s Castile Soap for years as a shower soap. It’s gentle on my skin, affordable, and has never let me down. But one day, while washing dishes and scrubbing my hands with Kirk’s, I had a lightbulb moment. I thought, If this soap is safe enough for my body and free of harsh chemicals, what else could it do?

That’s when I discovered something I never imagined—I could use Kirk’s Castile Soap to wash my fruits and vegetables. Yep, you read that right. A bar of soap that started as part of my shower routine ended up becoming one of the best food-prep hacks in my kitchen.

And trust me, once you try it, you’ll never look at store-bought produce sprays the same way again.

 If you think rinsing your apples under plain water is enough, think again.
 Why spend money on expensive produce cleaners when a 180-year-old soap recipe does the job naturally?

Why It Works

Kirk’s Castile Soap has been around since 1839, made in the USA with plant-based ingredients. It doesn’t contain synthetic detergents, animal by-products, or harsh chemicals. That means it’s gentle enough to be safe but strong enough to cut through dirt, wax, and pesticide residue on produce.

Most people just rinse fruits and veggies under water, but here’s the truth: water alone doesn’t fully remove the grime. That’s why this soap hack is such a game-changer.

How to Wash Produce with Kirk’s Castile Soap

Here’s exactly how you can turn your bar of Kirk’s into a natural fruit and veggie cleaner:

Instruction:

  1. Fill a large bowl or sink with cool water.

  2. Wet your hands and rub a little Kirk’s Castile Soap until it lathers.

  3. Swish your soapy hands into the water to create a light, diluted solution.

  4. Add your fruits and veggies into the water and gently rub them for 20–30 seconds.

  5. Rinse thoroughly under cool running water to remove all soap.

  6. Dry with a clean towel or let air-dry before storing.

Tip: Avoid soaking berries or delicate produce for too long—just a quick dip and rinse works best.

My First Test Run

The first time I tried this, I used it on a batch of apples and cucumbers from the farmer’s market. Usually, my cucumbers would feel waxy, and the apples had that shiny coating that made me wonder what I was really biting into. After a quick wash with Kirk’s, the difference was unbelievable. The cucumbers lost their greasy film, and the apples actually smelled fresher.

It felt like I was eating produce straight from the garden—except it came from a crowded store. That’s when I realized this wasn’t just a quirky experiment; it was a kitchen hack worth sharing.

Why You’ll Love This Hack

  • Saves Money: No need to buy pricey produce sprays.

  • Eco-Friendly: One bar lasts forever and has minimal packaging.

  • Safe & Gentle: If it’s safe for your skin, it’s safe for your apples.

  • Multi-Purpose: You can use the same bar for your shower, laundry stains, and now—your produce.

 

Final Thoughts

Kirk’s Castile Soap may look like a simple bar, but it’s packed with hidden uses. Who would’ve thought it could double as a natural fruit and veggie wash? It’s one of those “wow factor” discoveries that make you wonder what else this 180-year-old soap is capable of.

So the next time you bring home a bag of apples, grapes, or cucumbers, skip the overpriced produce wash. Grab your trusty bar of Kirk’s and let this old-fashioned soap give your food the clean start it deserves.

 

How to Make the 3 Most Popular Starbucks Coffees at Home

Starbucks has become a daily ritual for millions of people. Whether it’s the comfort of a caramel drizzle, the nostalgia of pumpkin spice, or the bold punch of a strong coffee, these drinks have earned their place at the top of the coffee chain. But let’s be real—those daily coffee runs add up fast. The good news? You can make Starbucks’ three most popular drinks right in your own kitchen. Let’s break down each one, why it’s loved, and how you can recreate it.

1. Caramel Macchiato (Copycat Recipe)

Why it’s popular:
The Caramel Macchiato is the perfect mix of sweet and strong. With its layers of espresso, milk, vanilla syrup, and caramel drizzle, it feels like a coffee dessert. It’s Instagram-worthy and indulgent without being overly heavy.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup milk (whole milk or oat milk for creaminess)

  • 2 shots espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)

  • 1 tablespoon vanilla syrup (store-bought or homemade)

  • Caramel sauce for drizzling

Instructions:

  1. Heat and froth the milk until it’s hot and foamy.

  2. Pour the vanilla syrup into the bottom of your mug.

  3. Add the steamed milk, holding back the foam with a spoon, then spoon the foam on top.

  4. Slowly pour the espresso over the foam (this creates the “macchiato” effect).

  5. Drizzle caramel sauce generously across the top.

Pro tip: Want it iced? Use cold milk instead of steamed milk, pour everything over ice, and drizzle with caramel.

2. Pumpkin Spice Latte (Copycat Recipe)

Why it’s popular:
The Pumpkin Spice Latte (or PSL) is more than a drink—it’s a cultural icon. It signals the arrival of fall, cozy sweaters, and all things pumpkin. Starbucks sells millions every season, but you can have this warm hug in a mug anytime at home.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups milk (any kind you like)

  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin purée

  • 1–2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)

  • ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (plus extra for garnish)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1–2 shots espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)

  • Whipped cream for topping

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, heat the milk, pumpkin purée, and sugar over medium heat until hot (do not boil).

  2. Whisk in the pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract.

  3. Brew your espresso and pour it into a large mug.

  4. Add the pumpkin milk mixture and stir.

  5. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.

Pro tip: Make a big batch of pumpkin spice syrup ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for quicker lattes all season long.

3. Caffè Americano (Copycat Recipe)

Why it’s popular:
Sometimes simple is best. The Caffè Americano is just espresso topped with hot water, but the result is smooth, rich, and less bitter than drip coffee. It’s the go-to drink for those who love bold coffee without the frills.

Ingredients:

  • 2 shots espresso (or ½ cup very strong brewed coffee)

  • ½ to 1 cup hot water

Instructions:

  1. Brew two shots of espresso.

  2. Heat your water until hot but not boiling.

  3. Pour the hot water into your mug, then add the espresso on top.

  4. Adjust the ratio of water to espresso to your taste preference (less water = stronger flavor).

Pro tip: For a smoother Americano, always pour the espresso over the water, not the other way around.

Final Thoughts

Starbucks’ most popular drinks are delicious, but they don’t have to cost you $5–$7 a cup. With just a few simple ingredients and a little practice, you can enjoy your favorite Caramel Macchiato, Pumpkin Spice Latte, or Caffè Americano from the comfort of your home. The best part? You’ll save money, avoid long lines, and be able to customize each drink exactly how you like it.

So the next time you’re craving a Starbucks fix, skip the drive-thru—your kitchen barista skills have got you covered.

10 Everyday Foods That Could Make You a Mosquito Magnet

You’re likely swatting at mosquitoes more than your friends—and while factors like body heat, carbon dioxide, and genetics play major roles, what you’re eating can also subtly bump your attractiveness to these buzzing bloodsuckers. Here’s a rundown of 10 common foods and drinks that science and expert observations suggest may turn you into a mosquito magnet:

1. Beer

Unsurprisingly, the most strongly studied culprit is beer. Multiple studies—including one in PLOS One with malaria mosquitoes in Burkina Faso—show that beer consumption increases mosquito landings.Delish+7SELF+7Tuxedo Mosquito Control+7

2. Bananas

A 2018 experimental study found that eating bananas led to a significant increase in mosquito encounters.SELF+2Delish+2

3. Fermented Foods & Stinky Cheeses

Foods like miso, sauerkraut, yogurt, kimchi, and especially pungent cheeses (think Limburger) may increase your body odor’s carboxylic acid levels—compounds that mosquitoes seem to favor.Delish+3SELF+3SELF+3

4. Sugary Foods & Desserts

Though not always backed by direct experimental studies, there’s widespread belief (supported by acidity and lactic acid production theories) that sweets and sugary treats might raise your appeal to mosquitoes. Vogue

5. Salty Snacks

Consuming salty foods can increase lactic acid levels in your sweat—another attractant for mosquitoes.Wikipedia+12Tuxedo Mosquito Control+12Mosquito Squad+12

6. Caffeine

Caffeine may elevate your metabolism and raise body temperature—both potential signals that could draw in mosquitoes.Mosquito Squad+1

7. Spicy Foods

Spicy meals can raise your internal heat and metabolic rate, potentially making you a hotter target for these heat-seeking insects.Mosquito SquadThe Washington Post

8. Ice Cream

Combining dairy (leading to lactic acid production) and sugar, ice cream checks both boxes for attractiveness to mosquitoes.Tuxedo Mosquito Control

9. Potassium-Rich Foods (Avocados, Potatoes, Raisins)

Foods high in potassium—like avocados, potatoes, raisins, and bananas—play a role in lactic acid generation, likely enhancing your attractiveness.Verywell Health+6joshuaspestcontrol.com+6Mosquito Squad+6

10. High-Lactic-Acid Emitting Foods

More broadly, anything that elevates lactic acid—whether through heavy carbs, sodium, or metabolism—could make your skin chemistry inviting to mosquitoes. It’s often not just one food, but cumulative effects.SELF+3Reddit+3SELF+3

What This Means in Real Life

While these foods are linked to increased mosquito attraction, the science is still evolving—and dietary choices won’t override bigger factors like body heat, carbon dioxide output, blood type, or genetics.Food & Wine+6SELF+6Tuxedo Mosquito Control+6 Still, if you notice a correlation (like more bites after eating bananas or beer), you might experiment with shifting choices during high-bug seasons.

Pro Tips to Reduce Bites (No Diet Overhaul Required)

  • Dress smart: Wear light-colored, loose clothing that hides scent and minimizes skin exposure.Verywell HealthThe Washington Post

  • Use EPA-approved repellents: Look for DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.Delish+4SELF+4SELF+4

  • Avoid peak mosquito times: Dawn and dusk see the most action.SELF

  • Minimize environmental hotspots: Remove standing water, prune dense shrubs, and allow airflow around your space.The Washington Post

 

Final Thoughts

Might your snack of chips, sugary pops, or a beer make mosquitoes buzz your way more often? Possibly. While dietary shifts alone aren’t a magic shield, being aware of triggers—like fermented flavors or sweet, salty, potassium-rich treats—can help you tweak habits and stay just a bit less bite-prone.

When I moved into my apartment I was surprised to know that one place could have so many different species of roaches. If you are in the same situation you are at the right place and you are not alone. This article will show you how to kill Cockroaches with Ortho Orthene Fire Ant Killer. Let’s get into it.

Warning!

Ortho Orthene Fire Ant killer MUST NOT be placed in open areas where it is accessible to children and pets. It should NEVER be placed on countertops nor near food supply as this is an insecticide that can harm humans and pets if consumed. PLEASE READ THE MANUFACTURERS INSTRUCTION AND FOLLOW THE STEPS PROVIDED IN THIS ARTICLE IF USING FOR ROACHES.

The name has nothing to do with this post and, that’s exactly what I thought when that maintenance guy told me to try it.  Before I get into how to use it to get rid of those pest its best to know a little about the behavioral pattern of roaches.

Types of Roaches in the Home:

Homes can become infested with a variety of cockroach species. The most prevalent ones are brown-banded cockroaches, Oriental cockroaches, American cockroaches, and German cockroaches. Because they can hide in a variety of places and reproduce quickly, German cockroaches are notoriously hard to eradicate.

German roaches are most common in households. These are the brown oval shape ones  and the other are the dark round ones small in size (oriental cockroaches). These type of roaches like to share kitchen, rooms and bathrooms with you. Yes, bathrooms! They like to eat hair and the smell of urine underneath the toilet rim attracts them. Also water, they need this to survive, They can only live for a few days without water.

Patterns of cockroach behavior in a home…
Since they are mostly nocturnal insects, cockroaches are most active at night. They would rather hide during the day in isolated, dark areas away from people and potential predators.

Signs of aN Infestation :
Seeing roaches: Because cockroaches often hide during the day, seeing them, especially during the day, may indicate a more serious infestation.

 

How They Communicate:

Cockroaches communicate with one another through pheromones, touching antennae, and even sounds.
They use pheromones to attract partners, indicate food sources, and alert others to danger.
When they feel threatened, they can also make hissing sounds.

Bathroom Roach Prevention TipS:

To  keep cockroaches out of the bathroom, sweep the floor every day and (clean the toilet using this method). And dry the sink and shower after using or before going to bed.

  Using  Ortho Orthene Fire Ant Killer in the Bathroom

Using a glove sprinkle a small amount of Ortho Orthene Fire Ant Killer on a sheet of paper and place it underneath the counter all the way to the back. Just a little goes a far way. Within  a week you’ll start seeing less cockroaches.

In the Kitchen

Pull out the stove and fridge then sprinkle an ample amount of the powder on a sheet of paper and place them at both corners on the floor. Next, gently push back the appliances in place. You’ll need to seal the container tightly and remove your gloves then proceed to wash your hands with soap and running water.

How to Keep COCKRoaches out of the Kitchen

Tip: Roaches will not stay where food is not provided.

1. Keep Countertops Clean by wiping with a damp cloth after each use. Don’t forget to clean the stove with Dawn dish soap to remove grease. Roaches will have a feast on the grease. Its like an energy drink.

2. Sweep floor regularly during usage and wipe daily.

3. Less clutter, less roaches, keep cabinets and underneath counter clutter-free

4. Empty trash bin daily

5. Its important to wash the trash bin once weekly to remove bad odors, The smell attracts roaches.

6. Do not leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight

7. Wipe the sink at nights before bed so the roaches has no water to quench their thirst.

Simply do your best to keep your kitchen clean and spotless.

Keeping Roaches Out of All Rooms:

Anywhere food  and clutter is there you’ll find roaches. They like to hind in dark places so keep areas clear. Avoid old news paper stocks and cardboard boxes if you can. They will actually feed on the material.

How to Use the Powder in Rooms:

On a sheet of paper place the powder behind furniture where children and pets cannot go. Just like you would in the bathroom and kitchen keep the area as clean as you can by dusting underneath the sofa cushions twice weekly and keeping the floor clear of food droppings and beverage spills. This will do the trick. Give it time. Within a week you see less roaches.

Do not leave dirty plates hanging around the home. When you are done eating take the plate back to the kitchen and wash it right away. This will do you a heck of a good.

The Take-Away:

This is how to kill cockroaches with Ortho Orthene Fire Ant Killer.  We hope these tips were helpful  as they were to me.

Thanks for stopping by, See you soon!

 

 

 

 

 

Homemade Cleaning Wipes (Easy DIY Recipe)

I started making my own cleaning wipes one winter when store shelves were empty and everything I usually bought was sold out—no sprays, no wipes, nothing. I needed a backup plan fast. So I searched for a simple homemade option, mixed up a batch in my kitchen, and haven’t looked back since. These wipes are easy, affordable, and just as effective as store-bought ones.

If you’ve ever wanted to make your own cleaning wipes, here’s the easiest recipe to try at home.

What You’ll Need:

  • 1 roll of paper towels (cut in half)

  • 2 ½ cups water

  • 2 cups rubbing alcohol (at least 70%)

  • 3 tablespoons dish soap

  • 10–15 drops lemon essential oil or any of your choice

  • 1 large jar or airtight container with a lid (wide enough to fit the paper towel roll)

Tip: I prefer to use a used wipes jar. If not any other jar as long as it has a lid so the wipes doesn’t dry out.

How to Make Homemade Cleaning Wipes:

Step 1: Cut the Paper Towel

Use a sharp knife to cut the paper towel roll in half. You’ll only use one half for this recipe. (Save the other half for next time.)

Step 2: Mix the Cleaning Solution

In a bowl or large measuring cup, combine:

  • 2 ½ cups water

  • 2 cups rubbing alcohol

  • 3 tablespoons dish soap

  • 10–15 drops of lemon essential oil

Stir gently to mix everything together.

Step 3: Add to the Container

Place the half-roll of paper towel into your container, cut side down.

Step 4: Pour the Mixture

Slowly pour the liquid mixture over the paper towels. Let it soak for 5–10 minutes so the liquid absorbs fully.

Step 5: Remove the Cardboard Tube

Once the center cardboard tube is soaked, pull it out. This will allow you to easily pull wipes from the center, just like store-bought ones.

Step 6: Use as Needed

Close the lid to keep your wipes moist. Grab one whenever you need to wipe down counters, doorknobs, light switches, or any frequently touched surface.

Helpful Tips:

  • Use a strong, high-quality paper towel brand so the wipes don’t fall apart.

  • Store in an airtight container to keep them from drying out.

  • Try other essential oils like tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus for added antibacterial properties and a fresh scent.

  • Use gloves when handling surfaces with raw meat or heavy messes, even with these wipes.

 

Final Thoughts

Making your own homemade cleaning wipes is simple and budget-friendly. You control the ingredients, avoid harsh chemicals, and never have to worry about running out. This recipe is one of my favorite go-to cleaning hacks—and once you try it, it might become one of yours too.

Looking for more easy DIY cleaning solutions? Check out these reader-favorite cleaning tips or browse the cleaning section on NotesFromThePorch.com!

Lettuce is a popular vegetable for salads and sandwiches but when it gets saggy then its not so tasty. In this post i am sharing my failure and my victories in the best way to store lettuce.

What You’ll Learn Here:

1. How to store lettuce

2. The Best bag for storing lettuce

3. The best place in he fridge to store lettuce

Lettuce rots easily if not store correctly. Lettuce is best stored in the refrigerator but not just anywhere in the refrigerator.  To store lettuce here is what you need to do first.

Step 1. Wrapping the lettuce

If the you are planning on storing the lettuce whole the first thing to do is to make sure the lettuce is fresh. Storing a stale lettuce will not give you the best results.

Its best to place it in plastic wrap rather than a Ziploc bag. I noticed that Ziploc bags gather moister which can cause lettuce to rot faster. So, wrapping the lettuce in plastic wrap if storing whole will make it stay fresh for weeks.

Extra tip: Covering the stem of the whole lettuce keep it fresh longer.

Step 2. Storing Shredded Lettuce

Most of us like to prep our vegetables . If this is the case go ahead and shred the leaves and place them in a Ziploc bag. I will let you know where to to place this in the fridge as it could determine the texture of the vegetable at eating time. Only store in a Ziploc b bag if its shredded. DO NOT WASH AT THIS TIME.

The Best Place for Storing Lettuce:

As mentioned before, the refrigerator is the best place to store lettuce. After packaging the lettuce place it in the crisper or the lower drawers in the fridge. Do not freeze lettuce as this could ruin the vegetable.

Washing Lettuce: Safety measures

Always wash lettuce before eating to prevent E-coli even if it was already prepackaged at the store. Also, lettuce is best use within three weeks of purchase or reaping if stored properly.

Keep in mind this is a vegetable and has to rot all you are trying to is to slow the process.

The Take-Away:

That is how easy it is to store lettuce. So, now that you know the best way to store lettuce I hope you will always have fresh crunchy lettuce lasting you for weeks.

You May Also Like:

How to Preserve Scallions Using a Blender: Lasts for 2 Months

Diy Farm Equipment Idea Hacks

Running a farm can get expensive – trust me, I’ve been there. The cost of new equipment adds up quickly, and not everyone has the budget to invest in fancy tools. But here’s the thing: you don’t always need the most expensive equipment to get the job done. Sometimes, a little creativity and some everyday items can work just as well – if not better.

In this post, I’ll walk you through six simple and affordable DIY farm equipment idea hacks that can help save you time and money. These hacks are practical, easy to make, and use materials you probably already have lying around. Let’s dive in!

 

1. DIY Seed Planter Using PVC Pipe

Planting seeds by hand can be back-breaking work, but a seed planter doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a piece of PVC pipe and a funnel, you can make your own planter in no time.

What You Need:

  • 3–4 ft PVC pipe (1.5–2 inches in diameter)
  • A funnel
  • Duct tape or zip ties

How to Make It:

  1. Attach the funnel to the top of the PVC pipe using duct tape or zip ties. Make sure it’s secure so it doesn’t wobble.
  2. Use a permanent marker to mark planting depths (e.g., 1 inch, 2 inches) along the length of the pipe. This helps you ensure consistent planting depth.
  3. To use it, simply drop seeds into the funnel while positioning the bottom of the pipe where you want the seed to go. It’ll slide right into the soil, saving your back and your time.

Why It Works: This hack is perfect for planting rows of seeds quickly and evenly. Plus, it costs just a few dollars to make, compared to the price of a store-bought planter.

 

2. Old Bicycle as a Mobile Sprinkler System

I bet you’ve got an old bicycle lying around somewhere. With a little tweaking, you can turn it into a mobile sprinkler system that’s perfect for watering different parts of your farm.

What You Need:

  • An old bicycle
  • A garden hose
  • A rotating sprinkler
  • Bungee cords or zip ties

How to Make It:

  1. Attach the rotating sprinkler to the handlebar of the bike using bungee cords or zip ties.
  2. Secure the garden hose to the bike frame so it doesn’t drag on the ground.
  3. Connect the hose to the sprinkler, turn on the water, and roll the bike to different areas of your farm as needed.

Why It Works: This hack makes it easy to water specific areas without dragging a heavy sprinkler system around. Plus, it’s a fun way to repurpose an old bike.

 

3. Pallet-Based Livestock Feeder

Feeding livestock can get messy, especially if you’re using buckets or piles of hay. A simple pallet feeder can help keep things tidy and accessible.

What You Need:

  • 2 wooden pallets
  • Nails or screws
  • A hammer or drill

How to Make It:

  1. Stand two pallets upright in a V-shape and secure them together at the top with nails or screws.
  2. Place the feeder on a flat surface, and add hay or feed inside the V-shaped opening.

Why It Works: Pallet feeders are easy to build, cost next to nothing, and keep feed off the ground, reducing waste and contamination.

 

4. Wheelbarrow from a Recycled Barrel

Need a wheelbarrow but don’t want to spend big bucks? Here is an idea. Turn an old plastic barrel into a sturdy and functional wheelbarrow.

What You Need:

  • A plastic barrel (cut in half lengthwise)
  • A wooden frame
  • Two wheels (e.g., old bicycle or lawnmower wheels)
  • Screws and a drill

How to Make It:

  1. Cut the barrel in half lengthwise to create the container for your wheelbarrow.
  2. Build a simple wooden frame to hold the barrel and attach wheels to the bottom of the frame.
  3. Secure the barrel to the frame with screws, and add handles if needed.

Why It Works: This DIY wheelbarrow is perfect for hauling feed, dirt, or tools around your farm without spending a dime on a new one.

 

5. Garden Hoe from an Old Saw Blade

Don’t throw out that old saw blade just yet! You can turn it into a durable garden hoe with just a few modifications.

What You Need:

  • An old saw blade
  • A wooden handle (e.g., from an old broomstick)
  • Bolts and a drill

How to Make It:

  1. Drill holes in the saw blade to match the size of the bolts you’ll be using.
  2. Attach the blade to the wooden handle using bolts, making sure it’s secure.
  3. File down any sharp edges to avoid accidents while using it.

Why It Works: This sturdy DIY hoe is perfect for digging and weeding, and it’ll last longer than many store-bought tools.

 

6. Tractor Weight Using Cement-Filled Buckets

If you need extra weight for your tractor but don’t want to buy expensive weights, cement-filled buckets are a simple solution.

What You Need:

  • Old buckets or barrels
  • Cement
  • Metal handles or hooks (optional)

How to Make It:

  1. Fill the buckets with cement and let it cure completely.
  2. Add metal handles or hooks to the top of the buckets for easy attachment to your tractor.
  3. Use these as counterweights to stabilize your tractor when carrying heavy loads.

Why It Works: These DIY weights are just as effective as store-bought ones and cost a fraction of the price.

 

Final Thoughts

Farming doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can save money and still get the job done effectively. These six DIY farm equipment hacks are just the beginning – there are countless ways to make the most of what you have.

Have you tried any of these hacks? Or do you have your own farm equipment tricks to share? Let me know in the comments – I’d love to hear your ideas!

Here are other farming tips you may also find interesting and helpful

Happy farming!

Other post to check out is…13 Meticulous Baby Powder Gardening Hacks You Need to Try!

 

 

The entryway is the first thing guests see when they arrive at your home, making it a critical area to keep clean during the holiday season. This high-traffic zone can quickly become cluttered and messy, especially with muddy boots, wet umbrellas, and bulky coats coming in from the cold. To maintain a welcoming and tidy entrance, here are six practical tips to keep your entryway clean and organized throughout the holidays.

 

1. Place a Sturdy Outdoor Doormat

A high-quality outdoor doormat is your first line of defense against dirt and debris. Choose a heavy-duty mat with bristles or grooves designed to trap mud and snow from shoes.

Place it right outside your door and encourage guests to use it before stepping inside. Opt for a festive design to add a touch of holiday cheer while serving a practical purpose.

Pro Tip: Shake or vacuum the doormat regularly to prevent it from becoming a source of dirt itself.

 

2. Create a No-Shoes Policy

To prevent dirt and moisture from being tracked into your home, establish a no-shoes policy at the door. Place a visible sign or make a gentle request to guests to remove their shoes upon entering. Keep a shoe rack or basket near the door for easy storage. For added comfort, provide cozy socks or indoor slippers for guests to wear while inside.

Quick Fix: If a no-shoes rule feels too strict for some guests, lay down a washable runner rug to catch the mess instead.

 

3. Organize Outerwear with Hooks or Racks

Entryways can quickly become cluttered with coats, scarves, and bags during the holidays. Install sturdy wall hooks, a coat rack, or a storage bench with compartments to neatly organize these items. If you’re expecting a large number of guests, consider setting up a temporary garment rack in the hallway or nearby room to accommodate extra coats.

Tip: Label hooks or compartments for family members to keep things organized and minimize confusion.

 

4. Add a Wet Item Station

Snowy or rainy weather often brings wet umbrellas, boots, and gloves into the home. Prevent water from pooling on your floors by setting up a designated wet item station. Use a boot tray lined with a towel or absorbent mat to collect water and mud from footwear. For umbrellas, place a decorative bucket or stand near the door.

Bonus Idea: Keep microfiber cloths handy in the entryway to quickly wipe down wet shoes or outerwear before they leave a mess.

 

5. Declutter and Decorate Strategically

During the holidays, it’s easy for the entryway to become overwhelmed with decorations, gifts, and other seasonal items. Cleaning after hosting holiday guests  pretty simple. Keep this area functional by decluttering before adding festive touches. Use slim, space-saving decorations like a small wreath or fairy lights that don’t obstruct walkways. Ensure that essentials like keys, mail, and guest essentials (e.g., hand sanitizer) have a designated spot to avoid chaos.

Holiday Hack: Add a small storage basket for outgoing items like holiday cards or packages to streamline your entryway.

 

6. Sweep and Mop Daily

Despite your best efforts, dirt and debris can still sneak into your entryway during the holiday rush. Make it a habit to sweep or vacuum the area daily to prevent buildup. For extra protection, mop every few days with a solution designed to tackle winter grime, such as salt stains from boots.

Time Saver: Invest in a cordless vacuum cleaner or a robot vacuum to handle quick cleanups effortlessly.

 

Conclusion

Keeping your entryway clean during the holidays may seem like a small task, but it has a big impact on maintaining a welcoming and festive home. By incorporating these six tips—using a sturdy doormat, organizing shoes and outerwear, and cleaning regularly—you can create a tidy, stress-free space that sets the tone for holiday gatherings. With a little effort, your entryway will remain functional and inviting, no matter how many guests come through your door.

Make your entryway a reflection of your holiday spirit while keeping dirt and clutter at bay.

Articles you may also like: How to Deep Clean Your Home Like a Pro

for years I have stored onions in the fridge thinking that this will make them last longer.  I must admit, it did last but, the color inside would often turn to brown or for some  odd reason it doesn’t seem to have that strong onion scent  it should. Not having that strong scent simply means its not as flavorful as it should be. In this article i will be showing  you how to store onions on your countertop and the best way to store onions in the fridge .

Have you noticed that the supermarket keep their onions are in wooden crates ? Yet, when  we get home we quickly tossed them into the fridge. Maybe we are trying to preserve its taste. While this can also be used as a storage method it doesn’t always work for the whole onion.

      How TO STORE ONIONS

#1. STORE IN A STORAGE BASKET OR CRATE

place the whole onions in a ventilated cool dry crate or basket. These can be store in the pantry or on your countertop. Do not peel the dried layer off as this will expose the interior of the onion causing it to decay faster.

#2.STORING ONIONS IN THE REFRIGERATOR

Diced the onions and place in an airtight plastic bag. These can be stored in the crisper or freezer for up two months.

#3. PRESERVE IN VINEGAR

Vinegar and onions make a good vinaigrette or dressing . When combine its also a good way to store onions.

Simply cut the onions into rings, Next, using clean mason jar, fill it with the onion rings then add the vinegar of your choice. Cover and store on a shelve in the fridge or pantry. These are good for sandwiches , gravies and sauces or just for having alone.

I prefer to used white distilled vinegar as its not too sweet which makes my preserved onions good to eat on sandwiches, burger, and adding to sauces.

Can I Store All types of Onions

Yes and no,  red onions, yellow and white can be store outside the fridge at room temperature. However, green onions are best when store in the fridge.

For the others, even though the colors and taste might be different they are all onions and require the same process for storing even shallots. These last longer outside of the fridge.

CONCLUSION:

And, there you have it! How to store onions so they stay fresh for longer. We hope these onion preservation tips were helpful.

Thanks for stopping by, come again soon!

 

 

 

Did you know you can use shampoo to clean your shower? It’s a gentle and effective way to tackle soap scum and dirt, leaving your bathroom surfaces sparkling. Plus, it adds a nice, fresh scent! Here is how to clean your shower with shampoo.

Can shampoo be used to clean shower?

Yes, shampoo can be used to clean your shower in a pinch. Here’s how it works and some tips for using it effectively:

Why Shampoo Works:

  • Mild Cleanser: Shampoo is designed to remove oils and buildup from hair, so it can similarly break down soap scum and dirt in your shower.
  • Gentle on Surfaces: Unlike some harsh chemical cleaners, shampoo is generally mild, making it safe to use on most shower surfaces, including tiles, glass, and acrylic.

How to Use Shampoo to Clean Your Shower:

  1. Dilute If Needed: If your shampoo is thick or highly concentrated, consider diluting it with water to make it easier to spread and rinse off.
  2. Apply and Scrub: Apply the shampoo directly to the surfaces you want to clean, then use a sponge, brush, or cloth to scrub away dirt and soap scum.
  3. Rinse Thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse the shower walls, doors, and floors thoroughly with warm water to remove any shampoo residue.

Considerations:

  • Effectiveness: While shampoo can be effective at cleaning, it might not be as powerful as products specifically formulated for bathroom cleaning, especially for tough grime or mildew.
  • Fragrance: Using shampoo to clean your shower can leave a pleasant scent, but be aware that some fragrances might linger longer than expected.

 

Extra Shampoo Household Hacks…

Cleaning the toilet with shampoo:

Just like the show move over to the toilet and the result are amazing. Simply drop a few drops of shampoo into the toilet bowl and use a toilet brush to swish it around getting under the rims. The smell is amazing when you are done.

Cleaning the Bathroom Sink with Shampoo:

After washing your face or brushing your teeth remove the grime and bad smell with a quick wash using shampoo. Rinse well and dry and the shine is like a mirror.

Note to the Reader:

Shampoo is not recommended for cleaning bathroom floors as this may be difficult to rinse and may cause slip and falls.

 

Conclusion:

Using shampoo as a shower cleaner and for general bathroom cleaning is a convenient option if you’re out of regular bathroom cleaning supplies. We hope knowing how to clean your shower with shampoo makes a big difference in the  hygiene of your shower and bathroom.